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There are frenetic sounds all around me.  Do you hear what I hear?  It seems that everywhere I go during the Christmas season, I can hear the hustle and bustle of people trying to ‘get ready’ for Christmas.  Just yesterday I was asked this question. Do you hear what I hear?

I hear footsteps scurrying from store to store, the sound of fingers clicking away at keyboards sending messages and making online purchases, voices saying “Merry Christmas”. I also hear parents yelling at their kids, people yelling at the cashiers, complaining about everything under the sun to anyone who will listen.  Do you hear what I hear? 

I don’t know about you, but when I am drowning in the sea of hustle and bustle, I want to put earplugs in.  I want to drown out the frenzy, anxious, negative vibes and fill my heart with joy and laughter.  Oh, I desperately need that.

Just a few days ago, I heard the wails of people all across the world who are grieved and saddened over the tragic, senseless murders of 20 children and 6 adults. My voice was among them.  I heard people asking, “Why?” Asking how a loving God could allow something like this to happen?  Wasn’t He powerful enough to stop it? I also heard people offering prayers and words of comfort. So many questions.  So many unanswered questions.  We have to trust God with it all.

Holidays tend to expose what tends to be covered up at less stressful times of the year.  Here are a few examples:

• Loneliness and depression
• Anxiety and unrealistic expectations of you and you of others
• Lack of energy and resources
• Challenging family relationships

These things weigh heavily on people at this time of year. They are scene-stealers and joy-stealers.  Now, throw the tragedy at Sandy Hook into the mix this season and these stressors are multiplied.  Many people want/need to hear some good news.  Especially now.  As Christ-followers, we can offer good news.  A word in season, if you will.  Let someone hear your voice.  Do you hear what I hear?

What is God trying to say to you above the din?  Right now?  Today? Listen.  Do you hear what I hear?  I can hear Him saying, “I love you.  I want to fill your heart with my Spirit. My joy.  I want to give you My peace. Do you know how precious you are to Me?  Slow down and walk with Me.  Abide in Me.  Stop this frenetic pace.  My pace is the only rhythm that can bring healing to your soul. Trust Me.”

Dear one:  Do you hear what I hear?  Would you dare to be still long enough to hear His voice?  That still, small voice?  Shhh…listen…  Do you hear what I hear?

1st Look: 

+Which one of these stressors has been a scene/joy-stealer in your life?

+How would you encourage someone dealing with these issues?

+What scripture(s) would you offer them for hope?

Through The Looking Glass:

Pray for yourself or ask someone to pray for you.

Pray for others dealing with these issues.